Rhode Island Department of Education
Lesson Plan
Lesson Title: Molecular Geometry 2

State Standards:
(GLEs/GSEs)
GSE - PS1 (9-11) - 4

National Standards:


Context of Lesson:
This class is the first class on molecular geometry. In this class we will be discussing molecular geometry. This class will focus on the shapes of molecules, the names for the different shapes, and the reasons behind the different shapes.

Opportunities to Learn:
Depth of Knowledge:

  • Level 1
    • Explain why compounds are shaped the way they are using VESPR theory.
  • Level 2
    • Determine the molecular geometry of compounds.
  • Level 4
    • Apply concepts to analyze the reasons why molecules can form different shapes (repulsion, lone electron pairs, etc.)

Prerequisite Knowledge:

  • Periodic Table
  • Molecular orbitals
  • Bonding
  • Valence electrons
  • Lone electron pairs

Plans for Differentiating Instruction:
This class will focus on the actual terms for molecular geometry and why a molecule can have different shapes. This will be done through reminding students of the inquiry task and using 3-D models. The groups will also have models at their desks so that they can see the models more closely. There will also be several different illustrations of molecular geometry.

Accommodations and modifications:
The groups will have the models at their tables so that while the molecular geometries are being described the students can have a model in front of them so that they can see the shapes.

Environmental factors:
The students will be sitting in their normal groups.

Materials:


Objectives:

  • The students will determine the molecular geometry of compounds.
  • The students will explain why compounds are shaped the way they are using VESPR theory.

Instruction:
Opening:

  • Collect Homework on Lewis Structures.
  • Review what the students did in the last class.
    • Lewis Dot Diagrams.
      • Have students volunteer to do an example on the board.
        • Questions from the homework.
  • In todays class we will take a closer look at molecular geometry. Why? Why should I (a student) care about this topic? Do I see it's effects in my world?
    • We will be learning about the different shapes of molecules.
      • Also, why the molecules have different shapes.

Engagement:

  • Draw several different molecules on the board.
    • Carbon Dioxide CO2, Water H2O, Ammonia NH3, Methane CH4
      • Review: What types of bonds are in each of these?
      • Take out a ball and stick model of each of these molecules.
      • Really? Are they not going to assemble the molecules? Is there a way to introduce the question and have the students think about how the atoms might arrange in 3D? Can you show them how to reason from the VESPR theory to figure out how some molecules are arranged in 3D? Can you make this a creative puzzle solving exercise? Right now, its just a worksheet activity, right?

        • How are they shaped?
        • Give the real terms.
          • Linear.
          • Bent.
          • Pyramidal.
          • Tetrahedral.
        • Why are they shaped this way?
          • Types of bonds.
          • Lone pairs of electrons.
          • VESPR theory.
            • The repulsion between electron pairs causes molecular shapes to adjust so that the valence-electron pairs stay as far apart as possible.
  • Give the students worksheets with more examples.
    • Work in groups but must be completed for homework.
      • Walk around to the groups and help out.

Closure:

  • I noticed that many of the students were having trouble with...
    • Go over that aspect with the class briefly.
  • Remind the students that the worksheet has to be completed at home.

Assessment:
The students will be assessed through the SAM activity that will be done in the next class period.

Reflections:
(only done after lesson is enacted)


Student Work Sample 1 – Approaching Proficiency:

Student Work Sample 2 – Proficient:

Student Work Sample 3 – Exceeds Proficiency: